I Voted!

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I feel better. I thought about voting early, but my usual polling place is generally pretty quiet, and I do love the festive feeling of voting on the day, so I waited. Then I kept thinking….what if my name isn’t on the voter rolls? I checked to make sure it was….but what if something happened AFTER I checked? What if I get hit by a bus before election day? What if my car runs into the ditch and I don’t make it in time?

So it was with great relief today that I walked into my polling place to finally vote. I couldn’t stop smiling. The poll worker who checked me in was a woman of color, and I had such a stupid smile on my face that I made her smile back in spite of herself. There were 12 polling stations set up, and no line. I dodged behind the curtain and just looked at the ballot for a minute.

I filled in Mark Begich, then Ethan Berkowitz, then my local race. I saved Obama-Biden for last. I took a deep breath and really thought about what it took to get to this day, not only all the incredible work that has gone into this particular election, but also to have a viable African-American candidate on the ballot as nominee for the President of the United States.

I hope to see a woman in that spot too, some day. But I want to vote for a woman who has earned her place on the ticket through her own intelligence, principles, work ethic, determination and grit, not someone who got picked as a strategic calculation, and a poor one at that. I looked at Palin’s name on the ballot. After my deep breath, I filled in the Obama-Biden oval carefully…being sure not to leave one little white space. Then I double checked to make sure I filled in the right oval, and didn’t make a horrible mistake because of my reverie.

Then off to the optical scan machine to watch my ballot get sucked into the little slot. Number 555. Pretty good turnout so far. I’ll be back later to photograph the paper tapes they are required to post in the window. In 2004, we had some precincts in Anchorage with a 220% voter turnout. Not again.

We should be getting the first returns from the east coast within the hour!

I was just doing my thumbs up/down poll on the giant sand pile next to my house (facing poll) this morning it was about 3to1 in the last hour I counted 20
out of 20 thumbs up for Obama ..
Right here in north phoenix …
wish I could post a picture ..

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CaliKid(13:37:22) :

Long time coming….

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Dianna(13:37:29) :

Whoppeee

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JESinTX aka Grill Igloo Palin(13:37:40) :

Way to go, AKM! I wish I’d thought to take a couple pictures when I early voted. I was too afraid of the “hit by a bus” scenario so I went early but spouse and I went together so it was still special.

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Deep Blue in VA(13:38:27) :

How many of us cried when voting? I did.

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NY Dem(13:38:40) :

Just heard something on MSNBC about McCain’s plane almost crashing. Tried to land, but other traffic was on the same runway – had to abruptly abort and go around. landed safely the second time.

🙂 What a great day. My four year old took care of the mechanics of pulling the levers and other doodads🙂 Then loudly announced at the bake sale “we voted for Barack Obama”🙂 In our predominantly Republican district, does it get any better?!

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Deb(13:39:20) :

hi …just got home and had to rush here to try to calm my nerves. I had already voted last week, but reading your story, AKM, brought tears to my eyes!

AKM-I may have access to a wordpressfriendly map after I calm down for a few minutes. I’ll let you know!

I don’t know whether to have a drink now or wait for results to start coming in….either way, it will be a LONG nite…involving drinking a VERY good wine!

Yay AKM! I kind of miss lining up at the polls to vote. Those pictures bring back memories.

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Debbie A.(13:39:41) :

This has been a great website – so very informative and entertaining!!!!! With much excitement I cast my ballot this morning for Barack – I sincerely hope he wins – but no matter how this election turns out, I am grateful to have been around to see one of the most inspiring candidates in modern history…. Keep the Mudflats going – after all Palin will be slinking around AK for another couple of years while she prints up her Palin for President 2012 teeshirts. I dread the day…….

Keep up the great work!!!!!!!

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suchanut(13:39:44) :

Regi – that is too cute!

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nswfm CA(13:40:04) :

I didn’t start with the tears until one of my co-workers told me of another who had originally planned to vote Yes on 8 in CA and then changed her mind in the booth. She and her husband have gay/lesbian relatives, we work with two lesbians and she got “religion” in the voting booth. I’m not gay, but lived in Berkeley as an undergrad and in NYC when I went to NYU for grad school and was so happy that she didn’t screw over her own relatives–I’ve had a cousin excommunicated by the Jehova’s (sp) Witnesses because he married a Jewish woman. My family (mom’s brother, his dad included) was the only one talking with him when his mom and older brothers dissed him at first, and it made me sick about organized religion. Now, luckily they talk with him. No one that I know of in my family is gay, but I know a few people and they are just like the rest of us, for crying out loud.

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CaliKid(13:40:06) :

I have been teary all day… and yesterday also..

As a 50year old woman of color, this is monumental… as an american it is historic

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Cassie Jeep Pike Palin (Wish I were Trout)(13:40:42) :

And AKM does it again! We were all peeking over your shoulder and grinning from ear to ear!

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SoCal Bob(13:43:29) :

Me too. I’ve got a little blue “I Voted” sticker on my computer now.

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GJ in Idaho(13:43:34) :

Yeah…this is the day we have all been waiting for. I didn’t cry but I did say grace as I push my little pegs…yes we still have those push peg voting machines. I made sure there were no hang chads, and bless my ballot and all the others as I put it into the box.

I am drinking a nice wine, also. Past 10.30 here in Ireland, so it is OK. I am blessed to be able to drink this wine, while also shoring up the fungible commodities.

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mayflower(13:43:47) :

OMG…. Ewwww…. Just returned home. No probs voting @ 10 a.m. this morning & my precinct ran smoothly all afternoon… but there was another McLame Robocall on my machine only this time it was “The early poll results are extremely close…. Only John McCain & I have the experience…..” Icky. And the polls are nowhere near close here in Michigan, you McLame idiots. Sheesh!

Tears? McCain”s name was on top and underneath was Obama’s. I was so VERY careful and slow in pressing the screen… and the relief was immense.

No tears today but plenty last night.

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Cassie Jeep Pike Palin (Wish I were Trout)(13:44:44) :

sosad go blue AZ (13:37:04) :
————————————————————

How much do I love that story!!!!
But what will you do with all the sand?

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C.Rock(13:44:50) :

AKM CNN has some kind of tracking thing on there site. Congrats on voting today.

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Lin Hussein(13:44:52) :

CaliKid – I’m a 50 something white woman, and this is monumental for me too. I am glad to hear it from you…I hope to hear it many more times today!

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Sandy Beach(13:45:46) :

In 2004, my uncle was in terminal stages of his cancer so he made sure he absentee voted for Kerry in October. We were all very proud of him. He did not make to election day.

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Dianna(13:46:02) :

Regi (13:39:13) :
What a great day. My four year old took care of the mechanics of pulling the levers and other doodads Then loudly announced at the bake sale “we voted for Barack Obama” In our predominantly Republican district, does it get any better?!

the middle school where I worked (colorado) did a straw vote today- results:
Obama-421
McCain-126

Bless those little darlings! (and their parents)

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Scotsgirl(13:48:19) :

So when they get to speak to SP following her defeat will she
a blame Mc Cain
b blame the ‘handlers’ (that always makes me think of police attack dog handlers!)
or
c blame the gotcha media
should I add d Joe the Plumber?!

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sosad go blue AZ(13:48:21) :

CaliKid (13:40:06) :

I have been teary all day… and yesterday also..

As a 50year old woman of color, this is monumental… as an american it is historic

Love ya🙂 part of the reason I worked so hard was for people just like you ..

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Dianna(13:48:50) :

sosad go blue AZ (13:37:04) :
I was just doing my thumbs up/down poll on the giant sand pile next to my house (facing poll) this morning it was about 3to1 in the last hour I counted 20
out of 20 thumbs up for Obama ..
Right here in north phoenix …
wish I could post a picture ..

I am anxious to see how AZ turns out.
From now on, when I think of sand it will be connected to you and your signs!

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Deb(13:48:54) :

polls in the east closing in just a few minutes???

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nswfm CA(13:49:11) :

I should also say I was the youngest voter by about 20 years when I voted, and I am almost 45!

i not only voted, i am resonsible for 2 women one 77 one 63 to vote for the first time in their lives..ever..how cool is that..plus my 2 granddaughters and ex daughter-in-law..so with me..you get 6 votes..

You totally crack me up! Are people taking pictures of you on your sand pile? This is just priceless. Go AZ for Obama!

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Deb(13:51:29) :

sosad-just reading your post made me teary AGAIN-what a historic moment! I am so glad you are here to share it with us at mudflats!

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Dr. Patois(13:51:30) :

CO Almost Native
Thanks, I will try to get back on the website and if I can’t I will clean my house and pray.

I voted in West Los Angeles today. I saved the marking of Obama/Biden (top of the list!) until last, savored the moment and could not help but cry. I was a Navy brat living on base just outside of Memphis when Dr. King was murdered. I never thought I would see this day. I am filled with joy!!!

Thank you everyone, for all of your hard work and dedication!

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Newfoundland Dogs Rule(13:51:45) :

AK, Congratulations!

And to “sosad go blue AZ” I was reading the comments outloud to my family and we couldn’t believe that 3 to 1 and then 20 out of 20 thumbs up!

You know, no matter what happens. To everyone who lurks or comments here, and of course to AKM and Spouse. This is definitely the most awesome election I’ve ever participated in.

Thank you. Take a breath. This is only the beginning.

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disenchanted tore(13:52:27) :

AKM- HuffPo has all kinds of maps. Looks like you can imbed them (?). OK. this is waaaaay over my (non)tech head. Can someone help?

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Dianna(13:52:39) :

IRISHGIRL aka puck mule (13:43:40) :
I am drinking a nice wine, also. Past 10.30 here in Ireland, so it is OK. I am blessed to be able to drink this wine, while also shoring up the fungible commodities.

It is always a pleasure when I see that you are here with us.
Thanks for being so dedicated.

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GJ in Idaho(13:53:03) :

AKM, 555 that my favorite number, I use it everywhere in my email address, and lots of other places, it always brings me good news, I’m sure it will be good for you today, too!

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Deb(13:53:37) :

the map I thought I had is not streaming…..sorry

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Bobg(13:54:10) :

Wow! 220% voter turnout!!!! My, you Alaskans are really patriotic.

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ProfRobert(13:55:05) :

My son is 30 days old today. I took him in his strap-on carrier into the voting booth and put his little hand on the Obama-Biden lever and pushed down (gently, of course). I want to tell him when he’s older how he helped vote for President Obama. I am so thrilled, not simply because this nation is going to get an outstanding president, a person of color as president of the United States will be no more remarkable to my son than a Catholic president is to me (born during the Kennedy Administration).

A woman traces her family back to the 1800’s. Absolutely beautiful read and just one more stunning reminder of how important and historical this election is. This diary (as many I’ve read today) brought tears to my eyes.
I’ve been teary eyed all day myself. What an amazing day this has been. God Bless the Internet and God Bless Americans!

These children of slaves, learned to read, worked hard and built their communities; teaching, healing, building a better world for their children and grandchildren.

But education was not enough. It did not change the color of our skin.
It did not allow us equal opportunity. We were still not free.

Only 3 African-American’s have served in the Senate since reconstruction.As a child from the Jim Crow era, who still remembers life before the Civil Rights Act, I never thought I’d live to see the day when a black man would have the chance to be President of this nation which my ancestors slaved in, and worked to build.

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Bobg(13:56:37) :

Please, if you are here from another country, identify what country you are from. The interest the whole world has in this election is astounding!

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CaliKid(13:56:43) :

Whew!! Thanks for the love….

When I get off work I will pick up some bubbly.. and celebrate..
I probably will cry some more.. but they are tears of joy…

Leaving in the Blue city by the beach Santa Barbara

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UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady(13:56:45) :

bPoint (13:32:25) :

Are you here bpoint – was that a true story about the airbeds or are you pulling our legs? I would love it to be true, and I want to watch!!

p.s. McCain don’t have a lot of luck with planes does he?

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cmac(13:56:52) :

I cried when I voted today! I felt SO proud of America too! There were at least 50 people in line when I hit the lines 20 minutes before the polls even opened here in Los Angeles. Never seen such a thing!

And I dug the pokey thing in really hard when I got to prop 8 and voted NO.(I’m in california). Enough with haters, and enough with those who want to take away people’s rights.

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Deb(13:57:02) :

ok>>>darn it>>>i”m having a caps lock problem>>>must be cuz i”m so hyper>>>>going to go reboot to see if i can fix this>>>>

You really have done a great service for all of us and for Alaska and for Obama.

You forged a community from folks just seeking some truth and you are to be commended for it.

Mudflats, too, is a once in a lifetime event!

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disenchanted tore(13:57:29) :

ProfRobert (13:55:05) :

Tears are streaming…

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ashkee Colorado(13:57:38) :

@Crunk Petrol Palin,

“With regard to McCain’s plane, was he the pilot?”

ROFLMAO I can just picture him jerking the wheel with his tongue flailing everywhere.

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Mainiac(13:57:57) :

What a DAY!! I work with hospice and it was so inspiring to be with many people today who were overwhelmed with gratitude that they lived long enough to vote and be part of history.
Life is good…very good.

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suchanut(13:58:05) :

Amen, Cassie!

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amy(13:58:17) :

OH My!! My hubby just came in from the garage with a handful of left over fireworks!!! He says that as soon as they announce that Obama has won he will be lighting them! He is going to take some over to a friends house so they can celebrate also! What a great idea! I’m sooooooo ready for this!

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Ripley in CT(13:59:04) :

Suchanut, nice logo🙂

And AKM, you were number 555…. according to my numerology chart, which resides next to my desk at all times, 555= “Major life change is imminent!”

Way to be a soothsayer!!!

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Lana, KY(13:59:36) :

Polls are now closed in Kentucky.

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Dianna(13:59:37) :

Cassie Jeep Pike Palin (Wish I were Trout) (13:57:10) :
Note to AKM:

You really have done a great service for all of us and for Alaska and for Obama.

You forged a community from folks just seeking some truth and you are to be commended for it.

I can’t find the sosad post that you are all talking about. Can anyone point me in the right direction?

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Bec Hussein in Illinois(14:01:41) :

Who is going to get through this day without tears? They are well-deserved and a beautiful thing.

Gotta go find a hanky.

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Deb(14:02:36) :

ok…i’m back and my caps lock is fixed…even tho i usually type in all lower case anyways, i can’t LIVE without punctuation!!!!!

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From England aka Spoon Archer Hussein Palin(14:03:17) :

I am so proud of all you Americans out there, taking your responsibility to vote seriously and shaping the future of your country. Today, along with the apprehension and teeth gnashing, I also feel warm and fuzzy. (Perhaps also due to the rare glass of wine I’m having).

I’ve settled in for the night – got my Fox News on. After the disgusting innuendos and vomit inducing coverage of Obama, as the results come in I wouldn’t miss the looks on those faces for the world!! I can only hope that Hannity comes on tonight:)

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Sarah "honey bucket" Hussein(14:03:21) :

I’m off to vote!
This is the first time I’m really voting FOR my candidate, rather than against the opponent.

Feels good.

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montanapete(14:03:46) :

What I love about these posts is that you find out you’re not the only one who is sentimental or superstitious. I laughed when I read “how” you filled out your ballot….I did it exactly the same way. It’s a new day and a new time everyone. Thank you President Obama.

I voted last week. My hubby and I have been voting by absentee ballot in Washington state since sometime in the 1990s. I’m not sure when we started, but I like being able to fill out my ballot slowly and carefully at home, with the Voter’s Guide in hand, and my computer nearby if I have any last minute questions. I never had trouble at my polling place, but election day in the Puget Sound is often rainy or cold, and it’s nice to not have to go out if I don’t want to. It’s also been nice to know that my ballot was in last week, safe and sound.

I’m happy to say that our daughter, whose ballot has been a mess since 2003 when she married and registered with her new name, was able to vote today. She went during the day, when it wasn’t busy and it sounds like they were able to help her resolve the misspelled last name, which has been an issue she has tried to resolve. So, we shall see. At least they let her vote and it wasn’t a provisional ballot like she had to do in 2004.

And younger daughter’s registration got straightened out this summer when she did her change of address – her married name was also misspelled in 2004, and she had to vote a provisional ballot. I’m not sure what happens with those, actually, but I do know that both the Republicans and Democrats were calling to have both of them fill out all sorts of paperwork so their votes would count in 2004. However, even with all that, it didn’t fix the name problem.

So, I am hopeful with so many people watching this time around, that the polling places and the election boards are realizing that sloppy registering isn’t going to be accepted any longer.

And I agree – it felt so good to vote this year. My good feeling has been since last week when I turned in my ballot and my hubby’s. And it felt especially good to vote for a candidate that I heartily respect and just plain like. I haven’t felt that way since John Kennedy (when I was too young to vote), or 1968 when it looked like Robert Kennedy would be the Democratic candidate, when once again I wasn’t old enough to vote, but was excited and hopeful.

Pat

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Dianna(14:04:15) :

Irishgirl aka puck mule (14:01:21) :
I can’t find the sosad post that you are all talking about. Can anyone point me in the right direction?

I think it is on another thread. She has 6 ft piles of sand with signs stuck in them. And a 200 lb. Mastiff guarding them.

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ashkee Colorado(14:05:19) :

LOL 220% turnout! Vote early and vote often?

It’s a fine day for voting here in CO.

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Deb(14:05:20) :

I know I’m posting every 2 minutes, but I’m just so ANTSY.
Anyways, the school where I work is a polling site, was just a steady stream, and no lines. But, over 66% of Colorado voters have voted early!!

I called one of my brothers who lives in Florida today to just make sure he had voted. With great pride, he pointed out that he was #2 in line this EARLY morning. He called another brother while in line and THAT brother was also #2 in line. 🙂

You double checking and thinking about what we were embarking upon was almost exactly how I felt when I filled out my ballot. Except, I did the Obama/Biden part first. Just to be sure THAT part was done and done right, even if nothing else was.

Many of you will probably never know the joy it brings to someone like me, (being an AA male raised in the South in the 60’s) to witness not just Obama running but how he as a most competent individual is being embraced by thoughtful people with open minds.

Gotta go run and see what the early results look like.

No matter the results, this has been a special day.

Thank you AKM for providing the venue.

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Dianna(14:06:21) :

Sarah “honey bucket” Hussein (14:03:21) :
I’m off to vote!
This is the first time I’m really voting FOR my candidate, rather than against the opponent.

Road Runner–as I posted on the last thread, if he graduated from high school, that school should have its accreditation revoked! They should be embarrassed he ever wore a mortal board.
And same for Wasilla’s HS. Although perhaps they’ve improved. After all, Levi and Bristol both found the graduation requirements too rigorous.
(Actually, I hope Bristol is continuing to attend school somehow. Here in CA we offer many options for young women with kids. Hope AK does, too.)

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Deb(14:07:36) :

my right wing blogger “friend” has several posts today, indicating how the right is going to twist this as a “stolen” election. (puke)

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Dianna(14:08:09) :

Deb (14:05:20) :
I know I’m posting every 2 minutes, but I’m just so ANTSY.
Anyways, the school where I work is a polling site, was just a steady stream, and no lines. But, over 66% of Colorado voters have voted early!!

This much energy would be great if we needed to get something major done… in my case it would be handy in getting this house clean.

Dianna (13:52:39) :
Thanks for that comment. It means a lot.
What I wouldn’t give to be in The United States tonight!

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UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady(14:08:44) :

From England aka Spoon Archer Hussein Palin (14:03:17) :

Had to laugh, it must be English humour, am also looking forward to a large dose of shadenfroide (haven’t got spellcheck), will watch Faux with merriment, want to see heads explode!!

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phoebe(14:09:08) :

MSNBC is on & Sarah was interviewed while in Wasilla…..”I’ll always just be Sarah from Alaska”. arghhhhhhhh

It’s quite an emotional day. Seeing long lines of people waiting to vote…people want their country back.

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Sarah "honey bucket" Hussein(14:09:28) :

Thanks, Dianna.
Actually I’m still here because hubby wants to be prepared–putting on warmer clothes, so I’m waiting a couple of minutes. While I want to get going, warm clothes here is a good thing!

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Jan Arnold(14:09:49) :

Va Dem – I did (get teary-eyed) too – there was an older lady who was a black American who had a pretty tough time getting around. I just happened to be at the front of the line when they brought her up to vote and the poll workers helped her to sit while they did the “check in. Since I was there and on her side of the table, I helped her to get back up out of the chair so she could go to the machine along with a very nice poll worker who helped on her other side – I was overwhelmed with pleasure for her and for so many voters to be able to vote for Barak (but selfishly, most happy of all for me and my kids!! WHEEEE!) Also, later, in the grocery I had a great conversation with two very nice black women who were shopping and saw my Obama button. We had a great talk and shared hugs!! Warm and fuzzy warm and fuzzy warm and fuzzy! They were very nice and talked quite a bit about their parents and how they feel this election can change the country.

NY Dem (13:38:40) :
Honestly, McCain has a bad history with planes and should be careful.
(Dork that I am, I was merrily posting on the last thread)

“Waves” Jamie!🙂

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sauerkraut aka Road Apple Palin(14:09:57) :

I voted early this morning.

Polls opened in pennsyltucky at 7 am, but the line started before poll workers arrives at 6:30. Although there’s a large holding area capable of holding all three lines (usually they only have one), the line of waiting voters snaked out the door. By 3pm, the line was no longer out the door. But at about 4:30, the line got even longer.

It was estimated this morning that up to 80% of all eligible voters in pennsyltucky would vote. I see nothing to counter that estimate. People are out voting. Polls close at 8pm but I suspect people will still be casting ballots until about 9pm as it will take that long for people at the end of the line at 8pm to get to the polls.

I’ve been out there since 8:30 this morning and expect to be there until 9pm or later.

Things are looking good!

For Obama.

Lots of nasty comments about Palin, tho.

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Deb(14:10:47) :

lol@sparky talking to yourself over there, were you?

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Dianna(14:12:19) :

Sarah “honey bucket” Hussein (14:09:28) :
Thanks, Dianna.
Actually I’m still here because hubby wants to be prepared–putting on warmer clothes, so I’m waiting a couple of minutes. While I want to get going, warm clothes here is a good thing!

Just heard on Rachel Maddow radio show that Palin oh-12 released, by email, a one page statement from her doctor to say “she is fine”. How is that for “profound” statement? Very informative.

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Let'sGetReal for "That One"(14:14:53) :

OK….I’m crying! I don’t know if it is because I am scared they will steal this election, or because I believe Obama is going to make history!!!!

God, I am just ready to get this over with!!!! I AM SO NERVOUS AND SCARED!!! And I’m not even running for the election…can I be that passionate about the Obama/Biden campaign!!!

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Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(14:15:07) :

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STRANGELET!😀

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Dianna(14:15:39) :

TO ALL

Has this spurred anyone else to become more politically active?
Saturday there is democratic meeting at our courthouse and I am going.

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Bobg(14:16:00) :

Goodbye Joe The Plumber, I really can’t say it was all that nice to meet you. I don’t like frauds and you are definitely a fraud. It will be interesting to watch how you will suddenly become a non-person after tonight. In about 30 days, if Joe The Plumber is mentioned, only about 30% of the people will say, “Oh, I remember him. What ever happened to him?” Your attempt to thrust yourself into the limelight will probably cause you much grief. I’ve read how you don’t pay your taxes and don’t pay your bills. Everyone knows where you are now and you can expect those nasty phone calls from bill collectors. BTW-if you have accepted money from the GOP, remember, you have to declare that. If you haven’t been paid and are not considered a campaign employee; that travel with the McCain campaign might be considered income and must be reported.

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Deb(14:17:28) :

gonna go call my sister…(in seattle) she has no “support group” like the mudpuppies, and she left me an email today saying how scared she was, so I’m gonna go “talk her down” some, if I can

be back in a bit

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mimi(14:17:53) :

Me too – Voted at the little township hall – the weather is beautiful 70 degrees in Western Wisconsin and the poll workers said the turnout was very good. There are a lot of elderly people in our township but they were there with their walkers and wheel chairs. Go Granny!
I did my video the vote part and have posted on youtube and on the video your vote site- pretty quiet in our neck of the woods. Our election officials certainly have everything in order and paper ballots too!!!
Keep the positive vibes flying out there – my nephew lives in Chicago and they have a projected 1,000,000 people coming to the center of the city for the victory rally. Whoo Whoo!

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Dianna(14:18:04) :

Bobg (14:16:00) :
Goodbye Joe The Plumber, I really can’t say it was all that nice to meet you. I don’t like frauds and you are definitely a fraud. It will be interesting to watch how you will suddenly become a non-person after tonight. In about 30 days, if Joe The Plumber is mentioned, only about 30% of the people will say, “Oh, I remember him. What ever happened to him?” Your attempt to thrust yourself into the limelight will probably cause you much grief. I’ve read how you don’t pay your taxes and don’t pay your bills. Everyone knows where you are now and you can expect those nasty phone calls from bill collectors. BTW-if you have accepted money from the GOP, remember, you have to declare that. If you haven’t been paid and are not considered a campaign employee; that travel with the McCain campaign might be considered income and must be reported.

Bobg,
My friend in Ohio said that Joe is going to run fro senate.

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Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(14:18:04) :

OK, troops – instead of sitting around crying make your plans to partay with Obama.

Try attaching to an email and send to AKM at akmuckraker at yahoo.com. Is this a sand pile w/ Obama signs picture?

I got it two post above you I put the link ,,me on my sand pile right next to a polling place here in phoenix … I am going back out in a few🙂

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Martha Unalaska Yard Sign Toon(14:25:59) :

@ sosad go blue AZ (14:22:25) :

Duh, I see your post. That is a most awesome picture and I’m emailing it to everyone right now. I’m sure jealous of shorts weather, and your Sign Dune is to die for.

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ashkee Colorado(14:27:27) :

I voted early at our library but today I walked over to our nearby elementary school polling place. There were 5 touch screen machines, 2 being used, and 4 people filling out the signature forms. No lines. People appeared very cheerful although I didn’t get a chance to talk to anyone. They were busy helping with the tasks at hand. Seeing BLUE in Colorado!

sosad go blue AZ (14:22:25) :
see if this works …..my sand pile thumbs up poll

THAT IS BEAUTIFUL!

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Vlad the I'm HUSSEIN Palin(14:29:52) :

@ ocliberal

The Palin is clearly insane. We ‘live’ discrimination? Give me a break – I think she just confused her vowels (not bowels) and meant to say “we love discrimination” (that would certainl make more sense coming from her). I’ll grab her and you put on her nice new white jacket with the sleeves that tie in the back – maybe McOver will take her for a short plane ride.

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MizKay [stuck in] Red Carolina(14:30:22) :

Hi everyone,
if you haven’t lit a candle (see the link on the Condolences thread) I noticed on the candle site there is a group named MudF and another one named toot. I read many of the notes left with the candles – you can click on ‘groups’ and find ‘MudF’ and ‘toot’ in the list of groups, then click and read.

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Sparky(14:30:56) :

CaliKid (14:27:56) :
CaliKid, where ’bouts are you? I’m in Sacto.

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Ripley in CT(14:31:06) :

I cried… didn’t expect to. But walked home in tears!!!

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Vlad the I'm HUSSEIN Palin(14:31:29) :

Scotsgirl (13:48:19) :

So when they get to speak to SP following her defeat will she
a blame Mc Cain
b blame the ‘handlers’ (that always makes me think of police attack dog handlers!)
or
c blame the gotcha media
should I add d Joe the Plumber?!
_____________

She’ll blame the PundiNts.

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Lee(14:31:31) :

sosad go blue AZ :

Great picture. Keep up the good work.

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sosad go blue AZ(14:31:54) :

Martha Unalaska Yard Sign Toon (14:25:59) :

@ sosad go blue AZ (14:22:25) :

Duh, I see your post. That is a most awesome picture and I’m emailing it to everyone right now. I’m sure jealous of shorts weather, and your Sign Dune is to die for.

I have been having fun all day ,people pull right up facing me to go to the poll and I get my thumbs up/down vote right on the spot🙂
If this one spot was the country it would be a landslide ..

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Ripley in CT(14:31:54) :

WOOOHOOOOOOOO Indiana!!!!! so far so good!

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DL Landry(14:31:57) :

Nice job filling in the voting bubble Muckraker! Very neatly done. I too checked my ballot over again to make sure I’d not screwed it up. Not been that careful coloring in a blank since kindergarten. Cautiously optimistic about Berkowitz and Begich. Huge turn out for sign waving at Benson and Minnesota this morning. Both candidates were there waving to enthusiastic commuters.

It’s amazing Joe the Plumber was outed about an hour after we were introduced to him & yet McCain tried for all of this mileage on such a dumb gimmick. I say good riddance to Joe & good riddance to John……our lives will be so much better without the bull…..

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Deb(14:32:26) :

ashkee-I’m 95% sure that our beautiful CO will be the most lovely shade of blue tonight (based on latest polls and the surge of early votes!) I’m so excited….CO will give Obama multiple avenues of winning!

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Road Runner(14:33:02) :

GUYS AND GALS

Traitor Lieberman “fears” America will not survive if Dems gain control. Translation: he will not survive when Dems gain control. He’ll be out on his sweet patoot. Off the committees, into the basement with the repugs.
Check this out:

I LOVE THIS!!!! I have twin granddaughter’s, and have book marked this site!

Thanks for sharing!

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Redwood Man - Santa Cruz, CA(14:34:46) :

My wife and I both heard this said by a caller to a talk radio show last Sunday morning:

Rosa sat so Martin could walk

Martin walked so Obama could run

Obama ran so our children could fly

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nocalgal(14:35:11) :

Moving tales from all of you- and across the inter tubes. This is a great day. A monumental day. An historic day. The beginning of the end of racism in this country. The next great step of the civil rights movement. To be a part of this day- as a voter, a volunteer, a baby in their father’s arms, a smiling face in a long and involved line of voters… it is all there and all amazing.

Thank you AKM for this sanctuary of peace of mind, laughter and commitment. And might I suggest to those who have not paypaled their support of the mudflats today would be an auspicious day to do so…

Let me close here with a quote from Joe Biden that I loved… he talked about how these elections have been hard fought. The opposition has called Barack every name in the book from socialist, to terrorist, to communist, to “that one” and many others that cannot be repeated. But starting on Wed. they will have to call him by another name. PRESIDENT (elect) OBAMA!

@ sosad
We’ll be watching for a name change from you tomorrow… No more “sosad”, ok?
Tomorrow ?? ,, I hope I can change it in a few hours🙂

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CaliKid(14:38:02) :

Sparky..

Im in Santa Barbara

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Susie in Jersey(14:38:41) :

@Deb (13:47:34) :

the middle school where I worked (colorado) did a straw vote today- results:
Obama-421
McCain-126

Bless those little darlings! (and their parents)

~~

I work at a school for kids with developmental disabilities. They voted more than 2:1 for Obama.

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Ripley in CT(14:39:22) :

Road Runner (14:33:02) Don’t you worry about LIEberman…. he’s gotta come home to CT, and now that I’ve been “turned on” politically, I promise to do whatever it takes to get him out.

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sosad go blue AZ(14:39:42) :

Cassie Jeep Pike Palin (Wish I were Trout) (14:37:22) :

sosad go blue AZ————————————

I’m completely loving the photo!

You would have been cracking up seeing me take it .. 10 second timer and run to the pile .. The first try I went right over the top (oops) shoes full of sand..

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JK Copper Catfish Hussein RefusetobePalin(14:40:01) :

OK – here in London we’re all set… Got my big cup of tea, two sweaters and a scarf (it gets cold in our flat at night) and can’t wait for the first results. I told my flatmate I’d go to bed at 2am, once Colorado, Arizona etc. are called, but she just laughed. She knows she’ll find me on the morning, all swaddled up on the sofa, fast asleep!

I haven’t been nervous all week, I’ve been certain of an Obama victory, but oddly enough I’m beginning to wobble now. I won’t be happy until I see the map beginning to turn blue. Please turn it blue Mudpuppies!

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Susie in Jersey(14:40:05) :

@Scotsgirl (13:48:19) :

So when they get to speak to SP following her defeat will she
a blame Mc Cain
b blame the ‘handlers’ (that always makes me think of police attack dog handlers!)
or
c blame the gotcha media
should I add d Joe the Plumber?!
~~

All of the above.

I just saw a clip of her voting today and when she addressed the media afterwards she truly sounded as if she was about to burst into tears.

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Ripley in CT(14:40:40) :

Irishgirl aka puck mule (14:34:33) : No official news yet, but it’s looking good with exit polls…. however, they are not to be trusted. Give it time, my friend. Have some coffee and stay up with us!

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iona(14:40:59) :

haven’t read all posts yet but must say how thankful I am for this blog –
changed my world. I get my news from internet now and have never
been more and better informed. It is an historic day. My mom in
hospital was sure to vote – we will be watching history tonight. When she
was a student nurse in Knoxville Tenn, she entered the “colored ward” to
revive a patient – wasn’t fired on condition she never do that again – she went
on to work in politics all her life. if anything will inspire her will to live, it will be this election. thank you AKM and everyone posting – let’s carry our hope and energy into the coming years – God bless and keep : OBAMA/BIDEN!

Thanks ,, I am going out to do some more sand pile polling right now ,, be back soon …

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Vlad the I'm HUSSEIN Palin(14:43:03) :

Does anyone know how close the race is expected to be for that foul woman Soshrill Bachmann of Minnesota? Please tell me she is going to lose.

And just perhaps it will finally be the demise of airwave hatred from the likes of Rude Lowbrow, Bill All-Riled-Up, Splat Puke Anon, and Spiteful Rage-on.

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Blue Idaho(14:43:36) :

After poll watching for 4 hours I waited in line for an hour to vote. Huge turnout here. No Republican poll watchers. I guess they are pretty confident. The Democrats who do not show up to vote will get a phone call from the Obama campaign and a possible ride. Now I am going to drink because I am so stressed out.

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Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(14:44:15) :

Deb (14:34:07) :
remember, don’t bank on exit polls. it’s exciting, but NOT scientific at all!
————————————-
Deb, they’ve been saying for a while that the exit polls will be screwed up from the early voting.

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Bobg(14:44:30) :

It won’t be too long before we start hearing how Obama “bought” the election; if Obama had accepted public financing the people would have selected McCain because the playing field would have been level. Let’s put this to rest right now. That money that Senator (now President elect) raised was voluntarily given by the voting public. If any candidate had the support of the people he/she could have done the same. Of course, if you do not wish to rely on the whims of the voting public you take the safe road and accept public financing. Public financing money is guaranteed and you won’t fall on your face if the support of the people isn’t there.

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Sue(14:45:34) :

Msn.com has a great election results map on their site. You click on any state, and it will tell you the results so far, what % of votes have been counted, and what time polls close in states still voting.

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Sparky(14:46:24) :

Vlad the I’m HUSSEIN Palin (14:43:03)

I’m with Vlad “What’s the word with Tinklenberg?”

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UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady(14:46:34) :

Sosad, great photo, maybe you can now be Muchappy!!

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nocalgal(14:46:47) :

Bobg (14:44:30) :

It won’t be too long before we start hearing how Obama “bought” the election; if Obama had accepted public financing the people would have selected McCain because the playing field would have been level.

Bob- I am with you 110%. WE THE PEOPLE bought the election. They will have to live with that.

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Dianna(14:46:48) :

Sue (14:45:34) :
Msn.com has a great election results map on their site. You click on any state, and it will tell you the results so far, what % of votes have been counted, and what time polls close in states still voting.

Thanks, Sue. Going to go check.

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shell from Ohio(14:46:48) :

oiy..I don’t think I can stand the suspense……I was looking forward all day to getting home from work and watching the results come pouring in……Now, I’m afraid to watch…….anyone else feeling like that?

Hubby waited till today to vote. We live out in the country in NE Ohio. He waited in line only for 5 minutes. They person working the polls told him they have had a steady stream all day and no problems. Voter turnout has never been so good. I can only take that to mean one thing……

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Newfoundland Dogs Rule(14:46:59) :

Hey there . . . “Ennealogic (14:36:01) :
Lieberman … whenever I see him… I see him melting, his face dripping, like in one of the last scenes of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.
. . . .

Every time I see him and hear him I think of Deputy Dog on the cartoons.

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Dragon Lady(14:48:41) :

Oh yes bobg – don’t you always read later about people like JTP – they wind up dead in a ditch with a rifle and bottle in their hands after their 15 minutes of fame is up. They can’t believe it.

That interview with Sanchez was topped only by his “press conference.”

Am sure he wanted Sanchez to ask him about his plans to run for Congress. (After he becomes an author – kind of like JFK and Obama – and makes his record.)

JTP and SP are actually very much alike. They don’t know that they don’t know; they don’t understand that they don’t understand.

In my next life I will be very dignified as befits my intellegence, like a David Gergen, and merely shake my head slowly from side to side and say nothing.

Today I say potatoes are smarter than SP and JTP.

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Dianna(14:49:15) :

SHELL from OHIO (14:46:48) :
oiy..I don’t think I can stand the suspense……I was looking forward all day to getting home from work and watching the results come pouring in……Now, I’m afraid to watch…….anyone else feeling like that?

Hubby waited till today to vote. We live out in the country in NE Ohio. He waited in line only for 5 minutes. They person working the polls told him they have had a steady stream all day and no problems. Voter turnout has never been so good. I can only take that to mean one thing……

Where are you in Ohio? I use to live in Hiram and Kent.

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Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(14:49:29) :

Every time I see Joe the Lieberman I say a rude word.

I hope he gets what he deserves.

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C Trout Palin(14:50:19) :

Results coming out on msnbc -kentucky/indiana

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Dianna(14:50:51) :

Aussie Puck Mule Hussein (14:49:29) :
Every time I see Joe the Lieberman I say a rude word.

@ shell
And I have roots in Cleveland area plus parts of Ashtabula Co and Lorain Co so small they hardly show up on maps.

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shell from Ohio(14:53:28) :

@ Dianna

Garrettsville….we call it “hooterville”. LOL

Nice to meet you!

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Dragon Lady(14:53:40) :

Bec – yes! Role model. I fell over.

McCain, a 26 year veteran of the Senate (and that other thing he keeps mentioning) has to resort to that.

Is it senility? Is it desperation? Is it that McCain always was a fraud?

I hope the final chapter of the next six McCain biographies are titled: Joe the Plumber. Kinda existential don’t cha think?

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nocalgal(14:54:22) :

538 final predictions…

“Today’s Polls and Final Election Projection: Obama 349, McCain 189 ”

ah.. the smell of MANDATE in the evening air…

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Road Runner(14:54:45) :

Ripley, too bad Traitor Leiberman can’t be impeached.

Just heard from Congresswoman Wasserman, Florida, on Rachel Maddow radio show. The lines are long. They had problems in some areas. But, they got in paper ballots to move it along. Our votes will not be taken away. At the close, we’d better make sure our side accompany those ballots to its storage place. And, we need to keep watch over them lest they disappear by the repugs.

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UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady(14:55:05) :

Intrade prices now Obama 95!!! McCain 6.1

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Ripley in CT(14:56:23) :

can someone please explain how “a mandate” works?

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Anonymous(14:56:39) :

History in a nutshell:

Rosa sat so Martin could walk.

Martin walked so Barack could run.

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suchanut(14:56:40) :

@Ripley in CT (14:51:12) :

WE, THE PEOPLE are taking back our country. KNOW this Muppies.

Can’t you feel it? I can
+++++++++++++++++++++++

I can feel it!

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califpat(14:58:03) :

I posted this yesterday on another post but I was kind of a bad girl yesterday. My husband, my daughter and I drove to San Bernadino, California to vote early. I knew we could not wear any kind of candidates’ buttons or attire but I could not help myself. So I put my beautiful Obama shirt on and put another shirt over it. We stood in line for maybe about twenty minutes and it was such a good feeling to finally get to the booth to vote. I took my time and savored it. After I had voted and walking back to my car feeling all emotional, I took off my top shirt just as I was about to get in my car and I was surprised to hear a loud “yes” go up collectively from many standing in line. That was great! Today my other five daughters called me to tell me they had voted during their lunch breaks and had experienced some feelings like something great was about to happen. Let’s hope. Thanks AKM for this site.

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Road Runner(14:58:18) :

GUYS AND GALS!!

Gotta go walk my little dogs so I can come back and settle down to see the results. I refused all invites to parties just so I can give my remote the exercise to flip all over and use my computer to HuffPosts.

Be back soon!!

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History in a nutshell(14:58:19) :

History in a nutshell:

Rosa sat so Martin could walk.

Martin walked so Barack could run.

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suchanut(14:58:32) :

In politics, a mandate is the authority granted by an electorate to act as its representative. Elections, especially ones with a large margin of victory, are often said to give the newly elected government or elected official a mandate to implement certain policies. …
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandate (politics)

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FL HUSSEIN NANA(14:58:36) :

AKM, I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to continue functioning ever since whats-her-face was chosen at the Rep. VP. Without your wise and insightful posts every day, who knows where I’d be! You’re the absolute best! Thank you over and over.

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mhrt oregon"steve"(14:58:55) :

one 56 Y/O white grandma born in arkansas 4 obama

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Sparky(14:58:58) :

suchanut (14:56:40) :

@Ripley in CT (14:51:12) :

WE, THE PEOPLE are taking back our country. KNOW this Muppies.

Can’t you feel it? I can
+++++++++++++++++++++++

I can feel it!
_________________________________

tinglies up my leg

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GinaM(14:59:03) :

I Voted here in Sacramento, CA. at 9:00 am this morning with my husband. What an exciting day this has been. My son is stationed in Korea and called to remind me to vote!!! This is a day I will never forget.

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Forty Watt Hussein(14:59:37) :

I really should have said HuffPo says exit polls should be read with caution. I just don’t want to read them with any caution at all.

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Sparky(14:59:55) :

GinaM (14:59:03)

A shout out to your son, Gina!

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Carol(Chicago,IL)(15:00:44) :

Left work early to watch the returns though I was useless at work. Kept lurking on Mudflats and checking HuffPo.

My friends are leaving to get downtown for the rally right now!

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mvngfwd(15:00:48) :

Every time I read another vote for Obama story I see it as if it is me getting the chance to do it again. And again. And again. And I can’t stop crying. Glad to be able to share this experience with you all, truly.

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Redwood Man - Santa Cruz, CA(15:00:59) :

@ akmuckraker (13:36:03) :

Hey, any Mudflatters know of a good streaming electoral map widget that is WordPress friendly? I’d like to get something up if I can. Thanks!

___________________________________________________________________

While I don’t know if this is what you had in mind, this is pretty cool.

HEY! Brain Richardson is reporting results already!!!!! I thought they were not going to do that until all the polls had closed.

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responsiblecitizen08(15:01:44) :

I planned on going for an early run and then straight to the polls this morning, but my plan was thrown off by my two boys. They were up early and didn’t want me to go. We all went as a family to drop off my older son at preschool and then my husband, youngest son and myself went to the polls. We had to wait for about 30 minutes, it was a 8:30 when we got there. I was the 299th person, which is pretty good, since I live in a fairly small area. There were no problems that I could tell and everything went smoothly. We use optical scan sheets in Missouri and I was meticulous about making sure my oval was filled in right. It stressed me out because it made me think of school and how if you didn’t fill your scantron out right, then you might not get the answer scored correctly. My husband was next to me and we had to keep passing my 18 month old back and forth under the curtain to be able to finish. He kept trying to take the pen away from my husband. He wanted to fill out a ballot,too. It felt good to finally vote for Biden, even though he was in the VP spot. In any case, it has been a long ride and I am happy that Biden will be part of the new direction of our country.

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InJuneau aka Wrangler Tractor That One Hussein(15:02:01) :

@sandpilepolls (14:06:25) :

I ADORE the new name.

You might try posting a photo over on the Forum somewhere…

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shell from Ohio(15:02:57) :

@ More Light than Heat

I love the small towns. I don’t care too much for the city. Too much hustle and bustle going on for me. lol

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Ripley in CT(15:02:59) :

come to the chat!!!

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Scotsgirl(15:03:02) :

sosad – awesome happy photo! What are you going to use the sand for?

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Bec Hussein in Illinois(15:04:09) :

Woo hoo – Indian too close to call right now – that is great news for Obama!

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UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady(15:04:20) :

Heh Heh! just sneaked a look at NcCain headquarters Live on CNN, room one third full, people wandering about with phones to ears all looking like stunned mullets!!

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responsiblecitizen08(15:04:20) :

OT- I meant to post this on another thread earlier and didn’t get a chance to. Why does a Palin drink so much coffee if she is a nursing mother? There are stories about her always having her blackberry and some form of caffeine in the other hand. Was she drinking all of this coffee when she was pregnant? As a nursing mother, this is troubling to me. Has anyone else thought about this?

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From England aka Spoon Archer Hussein Palin(15:04:33) :

Grrrrr…the anticipation is headache inducing. I am hoping that not only does Obama win…but that he wins all blue states, blue leaning, toss ups, AND red leaning. Wouldn’t that be something!

How many hours til we start hearing actual calls on states? I don’t trust exits and hard to tell from the early numbers. Sigh!

@ califpat
San Bernardino — WOW!!! Used to be that was the Klan capital of CA. The times they are a changin’….

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phoebe(15:05:05) :

Lindsay Graham holds on to his seat………….bummer. McCains enabler.

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West Virginian aka Halter Grasshopper Palin(15:05:34) :

I’m so nervous! Polls are closing–I don’t know how I am going to stand it!!

Help! Talk me down!

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Dianna(15:05:36) :

248 crayons (15:01:11) :
Obama projected winner in Vermont

McCain project winner in Tennessee

(source MSNBC)

THANK YOU for posting that. My computer keeps jamming. The two other people with computers in my little community must be on the internet.

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Dragon Lady(15:07:08) :

What’s a widget?

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nocalgal(15:07:14) :

Ripley in CT (14:56:23) :

can someone please explain how “a mandate” works?

and in the slang- it means a significant majority… it means that the person didn’t just squeak into the office but got a LARGE number of the votes. It is a sound endorsement by the populace not a tepid one.

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From England aka Spoon Archer Hussein Palin(15:07:50) :

@UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady (15:04:20) :

Heh Heh! just sneaked a look at NcCain headquarters Live on CNN, room one third full, people wandering about with phones to ears all looking like stunned mullets!!

Hee hee hee! Fox News warning that polls tend to overstate support for Obama. Aaah, just a few hours until payback bites them in the A$$! Hope they won’t have the door hit them as they leave the building!

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Bec Hussein in Illinois(15:08:18) :

Anyone else think this is probably going down as the busiest night on the world-wide internet in history? I fear we will be crashing the whole thing. What will we do?!

@ Dragon Lady
Widgets are the little thingies on the sides of blogs. Things like the Blogroll, the map, links to the Forum, etc. that are along the right hand side of Mudflats.

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HamletsMill aka Rot Pipeline Palin(15:09:33) :

West Virginian aka Halter Grasshopper Palin (15:05:34) :

I’m so nervous! Polls are closing–I don’t know how I am going to stand it!!

Help! Talk me down!
——————————-
WV,

Be strong! I am sending you vibes! But also a good slug of whiskey might help. Just say’in. Medication is totally appropriate in some situations. Just stay safe indoors at home! Ice cream can help too!

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Pursang(15:10:11) :

You call yourself an Alaskan and you didn’t vote for the AIP candidate?🙂

From the bottom of my heart I want to thank you for educating us on little Sarah Palin. You deserve a lot of credit for shedding light onto her misdeeds.

Thanks!

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shell from Ohio(15:10:43) :

I hate to have my internet down. It makes me a little salty….. Amazing how we get used to something. What did we do before…….we had to wait for the 11 o’ clock news….or the morning paper. I love technology!

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Dianna(15:10:56) :

Dragon Lady (15:07:08) :
What’s a widget?

A thing

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sosad go blue AZ(15:11:07) :

Scotsgirl (15:03:02) :

sosad – awesome happy photo! What are you going to use the sand for?
🙂 landscaping in my back yard ,, I ordered it a month early so I could use it for
this first ..

TV at other end of house, no laptop… can’t get the IPTV thing to connect to MSNBC… Tums bottle about empty… And it’s still almost 4 hours until the polls close here in CA. Arrrrgggghhhhhhh!

Will definitely be getting some much needed exercise doing the back and forths tonight!

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sosad go blue AZ(15:12:12) :

InJuneau aka Wrangler Tractor That One Hussein (15:02:01) :

@sandpilepolls (14:06:25) :

I ADORE the new name.

You might try posting a photo over on the Forum somewhere…
I will ,, the name change will be in a few hours ,,

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Scotsgirl(15:13:18) :

Are the numbers on the tv screento be trusted ? When they say Indiana is too close to call do they mean at the moment and they are still counting?
As they say talk me down…..

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HamletsMill aka Rot Pipeline Palin(15:14:12) :

Dragon Lady (15:07:08) :

What’s a widget?
—————————
A widget in this case pertains to a piece of programming code that you can embed in html code or on a display page in a platform template like WordPress and have it update and display data in real time from some server on the Internet somewhere else in the world. It is a display device that get data from a display service somewhere else.

I hope this helps!

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Scotsgirl(15:15:00) :

Another question – the figures on the screen is that including the early votes?

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Dragon Lady(15:15:24) :

More Light – Thanks! Huffpo was so thrilled they had these widgets but I didn’t what to be thrilled about. Now I’m thrilled.

Life is a Learning Experience as the Repugs and Faux News is soon to learn.

Greetings also to all our fine friends from Australia, Canada and England. Anyone else besides Jamie in France. Where are you from? Thanks for all the cosmic karma or whatever.

Hooray to anyone here from Vermont.

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Sparky(15:17:05) :

On HuffPost: 38% voters think Palin qualified compared to

67% who feel Joe Biden qualified (Sparky “heart” Joe😉 )

WTF did they get 38% thinking Palin could do the job…all Joe the Plumbers?

What’s a widget?
—————————
A widget in this case pertains to a piece of programming code that you can embed in html code or on a display page in a platform template like WordPress and have it update and display data in real time from some server on the Internet somewhere else in the world. It is a display device that get data from a display service somewhere else.

I hope this helps!

Sorry, but how does this apply to the election????
Don’t know this.

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califpat(15:19:01) :

Dianna:
I definitely feel the same way. I have anticipated this day for so long and now I am afraid to watch the results. I have been watching all kinds of crazy stuff on television without knowing what is going on and every now and them I tentatively switch the channel to mbnbc or cnn only to chicken out. This is going to be a long long evening.

what’s the website that streams msnbc???????? and other cable tv shows?

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Dragon Lady(15:19:43) :

Oh Hamletts Mill re widget – I knew that. I just wanted to see if you did.
ROTFL at my own joke.

Excellent; thank you. We are very smart people here.

I have no shot of hard liquor and need a Tums and it is only 7:18. This is not what I had in mind. Anyone have a Valium?

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Susie in Jersey(15:21:31) :

@Scotsgirl (15:13:18) :

Are the numbers on the tv screento be trusted ? When they say Indiana is too close to call do they mean at the moment and they are still counting?
As they say talk me down…..

~~

From today’s NY Times:

FIRST BITE The suspense starts in Indiana. Most polls close at 6 p.m. and others at 7. Indiana is a ruby red state where Mr. Obama has been running closely with Mr. McCain. Be wary of results that do not include Gary, a city with a substantial African-American population. If Mr. Obama wins it, Indiana could be the canary in the coal mine predicting disaster ahead for Mr. McCain.

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Dragon Lady(15:21:44) :

Dianna – see the Huffpo site. It means on a site like that with widgets you’ll see the changing election results before any network reports them.

What a great day. My four year old took care of the mechanics of pulling the levers and other doodads🙂 Then loudly announced at the bake sale “we voted for Barack Obama”🙂 In our predominantly Republican district, does it get any better?!

Through the last Presidential election and in one off-season election in 06 I took my kids. My daughter would tell everyone, “We’re DEMOCRATS!” It always cracked me up. Now she is in the Army and will turn 18 on Friday, so she missed this opportunity. She is BUMMED.

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Sparky(15:22:20) :

responsiblecitizen08 (15:04:20) :
I don’t find Palin to be a good mom…IMHO. No touching, embracing, cuddling…I think you can tell…

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Laurie(15:23:20) :

@bobg…I am Canadian. Like most here, I have been teary all day long..even at work. You can imagine the difficulty clearing my throat when I had to take a phone call. I kept mudflats up all day long, and went back and forth between here and Huff post.

I am confident…but at the same time I feel nervous. I swear I will be devastated should McCain win this election. I will never have faith in the system again if that happens…but I am praying.

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Dianna(15:23:43) :

califpat (15:19:01) :
Dianna:
I definitely feel the same way. I have anticipated this day for so long and now I am afraid to watch the results. I have been watching all kinds of crazy stuff on television without knowing what is going on and every now and them I tentatively switch the channel to mbnbc or cnn only to chicken out. This is going to be a long long evening.

I don’t have a T.V. so i am getting the info from here and text messages coming in.

I just ate a dried pineapple chunk, saltine and piece of bacon randomly. I didn’t even hardly notice.

Congratulations, all… we are witnessing one of the most amazing ever elections.

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galhopefulinCO(15:24:23) :

Wow….I’m so on the edge of my seat here I can hardly stand it!!!! I have read so many inspiring stories today…have gone through a half a box of Kleenex already:). I voted nearly 2 weeks ago by mail-in ballot. But, walked it in to make sure it was in a locked box. I still have my “I Voted” sticker. Am now wearing all my Obama gear, looking at my candles glowing and shaking as we all await for the polls to start closing. I thought I could make it to Obama’s acceptance speech without alcohol. LOL..I now have a cocktail in my hand. The hours can not go by fast enough..but with all you wonderful mudpuppies and 538 I believe I will survive.

@sosad—most awesome photo ever! Thanks for your polling efforts…hope they gauge the way the rest of the US voted.

I will be here all evening until the bitter end. Might not post but will be lurking…laughing and crying with all who are here.

TO AKM: Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done this past 2 months. Without you and all the followers I might not have made it to this day.

Terri in CO

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InJuneau aka Wrangler Tractor That One Hussein(15:26:19) :

@@sandpilepolls (14:06:25) :

Ah, I see you managed to find a way to post it already. It’s great! Looks like you’re having fun, and it’s too bad the pup didn’t want to make the climb.

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suchanut(15:26:21) :

I really need to practice having an inclusionary mindset.

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Dianna(15:27:52) :

Dragon Lady (15:21:44) :
Dianna – see the Huffpo site. It means on a site like that with widgets you’ll see the changing election results before any network reports them.

That is why widgets are thrilling.

I went there and my computer froze up. It is has a problem with widgets, apparently.

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Bec Hussein in Illinois(15:28:59) :

Gary, Indiana is in the Chicago (CST) timezone – rest of state in the eastern. So it will be a bit longer to get the full picture of Indiana until then. IL polls close at 7 PM — half hour to go.

Grant Park in Chicago is starting to fill up. Where is Chief Shikago???

Shows you how thick I am. I thought a widget was a little dooda in a beer can that mad it frothy when you pulled the tab open!!

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Bec Hussein in Illinois(15:31:38) :

Scotsgirl – votes are reported by precinct, so they should include the early votes for that district in most cases. I’m not sure about absentee ballots. Those provisional ballots that folks are given if there is a problem with their registration at the polling place and they give them those to appease them really — those don’t get counted for a few days – and usually only in a case where it is really close. — As I understand this all.

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InJuneau aka Wrangler Tractor That One Hussein(15:31:50) :

Did you all know that there is a NEW THREAD up, also?

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Dianna(15:33:37) :

OFF TO NEW THREAD

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Bec Hussein in Illinois(15:33:49) :

Suchanut – yes — he is somewhere down there. There is a big area where non-ticket holders will be. I sent him my cell phone number so he could call me to report – if he had trouble with cell phone/internet connection. It is getting crazy down there – so I hope he is in a comfy place!!

Virginia numbers not good but only 3% until I find the website I want.

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Laurie(15:38:56) :

wow…Joe Scarborough just paid Obama a compliment. Said if he wins tonight, he goes to Washington a “free agent”. Meaning..he owes nobody….not Wall St. not washington…and he will get much loyalty from all dems. Nice.

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From England aka Spoon Archer Hussein Palin(15:39:18) :

Do the networks include absentee and early votes in their tallies?

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phoebe(15:40:49) :

@UK lady

It is that too. No one real answer. Enjoy your comments!

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Augie(15:45:09) :

Dragon Lady (14:48:41)
In my next life I will be very dignified as befits my intellegence, like a David Gergen, and merely shake my head slowly from side to side and say nothing.

I love it!!!!!

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deuce2al(15:47:47) :

AKM: In the event you still need an electoral map, try this site.
CribTheElection.com

This is my first post to Mudflats. I have been a faithful reader since Sarah Palin was annouced as John McCain’s running mate. In trying to learn more about her, I came across this wonderful blog and gleefully jumped into the mud.

AKM you are an awesome, awesome writer! Your blog has helped me through many sleepless nights during these past few months. Though I’ve never met you, I feel you are a kindred spirit.

Fellow mudpuppies, I want you to know that you’ve “talked me down” many times when I was stressing out. I’ved laughed with you and cried with you. Enjoyed your stories and recipes. I will be baking the Sweet Potato Pecan Pie (I love pie) and Hungarian Honey cookies. You are a wonderful group.

To all the California mudpuppies, I voted NO on Proposition 8. Regardless of how some tried to spin it…it is nothing more than “discrimination.” Discrimination is WRONG and must be stopped. Everyone should be allowed to be happy. There is nothing wrong with wanting to commit through marriage to the person you love and who loves you. In this life, all we want is to love and be loved in return.

When I marked my ballot for Barack Hussein Obama and Joseph Biden today, I was thrilled and filled with hope for the future and our country. Cleaning up the mess from the past eight years will be overwhelming, but if we all pitch in…we can do it!

My husband is a die-hard Democrat working in a die-hard Republican department. He and his boss made sure that they wore their Obama buttons and kept the haters in line. He was telling me that one of the guys in his group came and told him he was voting for Obama today. He listened to my husband and really started paying attention to Obama’s speech and how he carried himself during the campaign. He agreed that McCain and Palin were liars and running a negative campaign. Plus, he felt that Sarah “PITA” Palin was arrogant, ignorant and dangerous. PITA = Pain In The ___ (you know what to insert)

I have not watched the television yet, I am too nervous. I am going to take deep breaths and go back and forth between my computer and television.

Much love to you all.

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HamletsMill aka Rot Pipeline Palin(16:14:03) :

sauerkraut aka Road Apple Palin (14:09:57) :

I voted early this morning.

Polls opened in pennsyltucky at 7 am, but the line started before poll workers arrives at 6:30. Although there’s a large holding area capable of holding all three lines (usually they only have one), the line of waiting voters snaked out the door. By 3pm, the line was no longer out the door. But at about 4:30, the line got even longer.

It was estimated this morning that up to 80% of all eligible voters in pennsyltucky would vote. I see nothing to counter that estimate. People are out voting. Polls close at 8pm but I suspect people will still be casting ballots until about 9pm as it will take that long for people at the end of the line at 8pm to get to the polls.

I’ve been out there since 8:30 this morning and expect to be there until 9pm or later.

Things are looking good!

For Obama.

Lots of nasty comments about Palin, tho.
———————————————–

sauerkraut aka Road Apple Palin,

All I can say here is that on my way to work into the City of Pittsburgh this morning after voting in my town 12 miles away from the city limits, I passed three polling locations that were so jammed up with cars parked in a nearby parking lot that there was no space left. This was around 10AM as I passed by. I have never seen anything like that before! Maybe the Steeler win last night to revive the Redskins Election Predictor Legend will work for Pittsburgh to really go cosmic and be able to neutralize the “Deer Hunting With Jesus” vote out there in the rural counties. Same with the Philly World Series Victory doing a vibe on the Republican suburbs of Philadelphia. We shall see. PA HAS to come though. I am using every mojo I can now.

Last week my youngest sister visited me from Philadelphia. Her son (my nephew) was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society at CMU. We are very proud of him and his hard work to achieve this great success!

We had some time before the ceremony on campus so I took her to Pamela’s Restaurant in the Strip District District where Mr. Rooney of the Pittsburgh Steelers Team Organization took Barack and Michelle Obama as personal guests when they were here during the PA Primary. I sat in Barack’s chair from that day at the table in April and my sister sat in Michelle’s. We did a silent meditation for strength as she discussed her absolute spiritual fave Pima Chodron.

We enjoyed our meal there as we know they did theirs! We were respectful sitting in their chairs that day. The waiter was very proud to talk about it and brought us the Commemorative Plaque to see they now have there that commemorates the visit. He even took it down from the wall and brought it over to see so we could see it while we had our meal!

Maybe our meditation will help? Maybe that plus the Steeler win? They DID come through on the Predictor Legend all started by that BLOCKED KICK! It was a breakdown of the Washington Redskins protection coverage. Maybe it was an omen? Maybe PA will come through because the people of PA HAVE to REALLY start thinking straight now after eight years of hell? Maybe because people have to realize they have to start voting for their own self interest and not these manipulative Rovian wedge issues? Maybe PA will come through now? Maybe? Because PA MUST come through via Pittsburgh and Philadelphia going solid DEEP BLUE! I hope and pray so as the evening progresses tonight and the returns come in.

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DMnewberg(16:17:24) :

I voted by mail for Obama last week. But today’s finale was so exciting, I had to go out and vote for him again today !

[OK, for righties who can’t take a joke–just kidding. Don’t send your goons after me.]

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eajphd Molten Contra Palin(16:24:40) :

“Sparky (15:17:05) :
WTF did they get 38% thinking Palin could do the job…all Joe the Plumbers?”

They’re all the people who share the same profound understanding of the executive branch of government expressed in SP’s Zen like question: “What does they vice president actually do?”

Even here in Japan there are a lot of non-English speakers who have a better sense of things.

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Bec Hussein in Illinois(16:26:16) :

Greetings sleeplessncali

A lot of crazy people over on the Mudflats live Blog — pretty quiet here right now

I’ll vote for Lindsay Graham–as soon as he comes out of the closet. And not before.
I was at the polling place at 6 am today, had to get to work by 8. It was such a friendly, happy place. happy shiny people. Chatty, helpful. Killed an hour together and not a cross word was spoken. Clearly an Obama crowd. His win can’t be anything but positive and sooner or later, even his detractors will realize it.
From the negatory crowd at work I heard that 1) there will be riots, regardless of the results (apparently, because black people can’t control themselves–that was the vibe–how vile) 2) all drugs will now be legalized! Don’t remember that part of Obama’s platform?
Whew! Just returned from the happy dance in the street for winning New Mexico and I think I’m done–I’m exhausted from running back and forth. Also concerned that someone may call the cops on me.
Think I’ll try to behave in a dignified manner that befits a 50ish woman…for now.

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Martha Unalaska Yard Sign Toon(17:55:56) :

@sandpilepolls (14:06:25) :

How funny!!! This should be a regular ground troops method. Your new name is just perfect.

Just back from working as Democratic Election Observer in a red county in a red state. My take on those folks is that they did the same as every election but one since 1964 … went republican. Retirees, living on fixed incomes, Why do they vote against their own best interests???
At any rate in my precinct the poll workers refusal to allow a family (mom, daughter, daughter’s husband) to vote. Raced out to the 75 foot line, caught them, and went over the ID needs here in AZ, turned out they HAD what they needed, and we got three there.
An old friend who has OFTEN said that he’s only voted twice in his life (he’s 82) showed up and voted for Barack.
We may have lost this precinct, probably this county, and possibly even Arizona. But those four votes were so very sweet for me to see.
Oh, and my lady and I voted, too. Natch!

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sharon in canada(19:49:18) :

sleep well tonight my neighbours..you are in good hands.This is a land on the moon moment and I am so proud of you.God bless America.

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Rankle Hiway Hussein of the Obamanation(20:55:55) :

Well it looks like we lost my state (Arizona) but up here we have a bright note to build on … WE WON THE COUNTY. . The hours, the work, paid off here in Mohave County. Comiserations to my felloww zoners on our loss, but much greater congratulations for what we’ve won.

Arizona is sending a PREDOMINANTLY Democratic set of Representatives to D.C. next year. Now if we can just get Janet to run for Senator in ’10

Pastiche’ of those Mudflatters who contributed images will be up tomorrow.